Third Year Undergraduate in Mechanical Engineering at UC Irvine with a Passion for Robotics, Aerospace, and STEM Education
I'm a mechanical engineering student with a keen interest in the aerospace industry. My journey towards this field has been shaped by a desire to find a career doing something I love and contributing my work towards the future of mankind.
In my high school years, my initial career aspiration was in filmmaking. I was captivated by the world of film and storytelling, and I envisioned a future in this creative industry. However, I later realized the challenges and uncertainties associated with pursuing a career in filmmaking, which prompted me to explore other options.
During this period, my fascination with space had always been present, but it wasn't until late in high school that I truly considered a career in the aerospace industry. My interest in video games, such as Minecraft, Roblox, and ARK, revealed my passion for building and exploring new worlds. This realization led me to choose mechanical engineering as my academic path, as it offered a broad foundation that could lead me into both aerospace and aviation.
I started my mechanical engineering journey at Pasadena City College, which not only provided me with valuable resources but also allowed me ample time to build a strong foundation and gain a deep understanding of the necessary material for my future academic and career pursuits. For a strong engineering foundation, I immersed myself in courses which taught me the language of nature, physics and mathematics, and loved both subjects. Simultaneously, I delved into courses covering CAD design and manufacturing processes, gaining hands-on experience that solidified my understanding of the engineering process.
One significant milestone in my academic journey was my internship at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where I had the privilege of working alongside experts in the field. This experience provided me with invaluable tools and skills, enabling me to bring my creative ideas to life and contribute to groundbreaking projects. It was during this period that my initial broad interests began to crystallize into a focused passion for researching and designing the future of flight.
Another significant milestone during my academic journey has been my experiences as a mathematics tutor at Pasadena City College. This opportunity allowed me to share my passion for mathematics with fellow students, encouraging their enthusiasm for learning and guiding them to achieve their academic goals. My time as a tutor has not only strengthened my teaching and communication skills but has also inspired me to pursue a part-time career in STEM education. I am committed to equipping myself with the skills necessary to become an effective educator and mentor, preparing future generations of STEM professionals while continuing my aerospace engineering career.
Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my educational journey and further enhance my skills. In the Fall of 2023, I will be transferring to UC Irvine to pursue advanced coursework and collaborate with esteemed faculty members on innovative aerospace/aviation projects. This next chapter in my education will not only deepen my knowledge but also open doors to new opportunities in aerospace engineering.
In summary, my educational journey has been a progression from a creative interest in filmmaking to a more practical and promising pursuit of aerospace engineering. I am now wholeheartedly committed to contributing to this dynamic and promising field.